A yellow heat-health alert has been issued as temperatures are predicted to reach 32°C (86°F) on Tuesday. This warning affects all areas of England, except the North East and North West, and will remain in effect until Wednesday. As temperatures rise, it is essential to understand the system in place that helps protect the public from the health risks associated with extreme weather.
The weather alert service operates under the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office, having been introduced in June 2023. It encompasses both heat-health alerts and cold-health alerts, tailored to address seasonal health risks. Heat-health alerts are typically issued between June 1 and September 30, while cold-health alerts are issued from November 1 to March 30. The system is designed to provide timely warnings to the public and offers direct guidance to NHS England, government agencies, and other healthcare professionals during periods of adverse weather. Alerts are categorized based on severity and include important information, such as expected weather conditions in the coming days, how these conditions will affect specific regions, and links to additional resources for guidance.
The alert levels are determined based on forecasts and data from the Met Office, ranging from green (least severe) to red (most severe). The green level represents normal conditions, offering advice on preparing for potential temperature changes. Yellow alerts are issued during periods of hot or cold weather, primarily affecting vulnerable groups like the elderly or those with existing health conditions. Amber alerts indicate situations that could pose risks to the entire population, potentially increasing demand for healthcare services and causing travel disruptions. Red alerts, the most severe, are issued when extreme temperatures pose a significant risk to life, even for healthy individuals. This level of alert may lead to failures in critical infrastructure, such as power outages and disruptions to transport services.
Hot weather can have a considerable impact on the body’s functioning. As temperatures rise, blood vessels dilate, which results in lower blood pressure and an increased workload for the heart. This can lead to mild symptoms such as itchy heat rashes or swollen feet due to leaky blood vessels. Additionally, sweating leads to the loss of fluids and salts, disrupting the body’s balance. When combined with lowered blood pressure, these factors can result in heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Symptoms of heat-related illnesses may include dizziness, nausea, fainting, confusion, muscle cramps, headaches, heavy sweating, and tiredness. If blood pressure drops excessively, the risk of heart attacks may also increase.
During hot weather, it is crucial to stay informed about health guidance to mitigate risks associated with high temperatures. Likewise, understanding the impacts of cold weather is essential for maintaining health during the winter months. Staying updated on current weather-health alerts issued by the UK Health Security Agency can help the public make informed decisions. Consider signing up for alerts to receive timely information regarding health risks associated with extreme temperatures, ensuring you and your loved ones stay safe during adverse weather conditions.